Oangband is one of many variants of Angband, emphasising intuitive rules, varied gameplay, and extra coolness. This long-established variant (one of the older ones active) offers more individual and distinct classes and specializations, more intelligent and diverse monsters, and more subtle and interesting objects. Depth of play is tremendous, with well-balanced ways to kill monsters that work from the moment you walk into the dungeon, to that dread day you face Morgoth, wielder of the Udun-Fire.

Major changes include much more intelligent monsters (which is termed the "4GAI"), rebalanced monster and player combat, new feats, and more varied dungeons (as compared to Vanilla).